Planning Associate / Senior Associate

Lester Aldridge LLP; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK law firm in Southampton is seeking an experienced Senior Planning Solicitor. This role involves advising clients on planning and environmental law, managing caseloads, and mentoring junior colleagues. The firm offers hybrid working and supports career progression. Ideal candidates will have in-depth knowledge of planning obligations and strong analytical skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in planning obligations for dwellings, health, care, and retirement living.
• Excellent business and interpersonal skills.
• Proactive mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead new business initiatives for the team.
• Manage a varied caseload and advise clients.
• Draft and negotiate planning and environmental documentation.
• Build strong client relationships and contribute to business development.
• Mentor junior colleagues.

Skills

In-depth knowledge of Planning obligations

Excellent technical skills

Strong analytical skills

High client service standards

Job description

Overview

Are you ready to shape the future of planning and environmental law?

Lester Aldridge LLP is seeking an experienced Senior Planning Solicitor to join our Southampton office.

You’ll advise housebuilders and other prestigious clients on both contentious and non-contentious planning and environment matters — working on meaningful cases from day one, backed by a team that’s invested in your success.

Why Join Us?

Work That Matters, Backed by the Best

Step into high-impact cases with the support of experienced peers and inspiring leaders.

Freedom to Thrive

Hybrid working and sensible targets give you space to grow, sharpen your skills, and shape your career.

Big Enough for Opportunity, Small Enough for Impact

With 400 people across three offices, you’ll have the resources of a leading firm — and the visibility to make your mark.

A Firm with Roots and Vision

Join a stable, respected practice evolving through bold strategy. Our Path to Partnership is proven — with real stories of progression from trainee to partner.

What You’ll Do

• Take a strong lead on bring new business to the team
• Manage a varied caseload and advise clients in person and in writing
• Draft and negotiate planning and environmental documentation
• Build strong client relationships and contribute to business development
• Mentor junior colleagues and act as a role model
• Stay current with legal developments and promote our core values: Clients, People, Teamwork, Progressiveness

What You’ll Bring

• In-depth knowledge and experience of Planning obligations (negotiated deliverables to support infrastructure on the land / development) for dwellings, health, care and retirement living
• Excellent technical, business, and interpersonal skills
• Proactive mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively under pressure
• High client service standards and time management skills
• Marketing and networking flair, with a passion for thought leadership

Ready to make your mark in Planning and Environment law?

Let’s talk. Apply now or reach out for a confidential conversation.